Janelle Kaz
I’m a PhD student in Environmental Science & Policy at the University of Miami Rosenstiel School, focused on non-invasive wildlife research. For more than a decade, I lived on a motorcycle across Southeast Asia and South America, seeking out the people and projects protecting biodiversity. My work is about helping the helpers—supporting field teams, using photography and journalism to amplify their impact, and building stewardship for wildlife and wild places through education and accessible science.
Non-invasive wildlife research
Biologist | Journalist | Motorcycle explorer
Field-to-policy conservation storytelling
Advocate for the wild
Mission
Document and strengthen the real-world actions that protect ecosystems—and the wildlife and communities that depend on them—by combining field storytelling with non-invasive research tools, including emerging technologies like environmental DNA.
Goals
Increase support for those working in conservation
Assist and amplify the work of researchers, NGOs, and community partners through field collaboration, visibility, and practical support.Help secure rights for indigenous people and their land
Support and elevate indigenous and local community-led stewardship efforts, recognizing land rights as foundational to long-term biodiversity protection.Assess wildlife populations and protect habitat
Contribute to biodiversity monitoring and habitat protection using ethical, non-invasive approaches.Create and implement wildlife and environmental education outreach programs
Develop accessible outreach and training that builds stewardship, improves ecological literacy, and helps people participate meaningfully in conservation.Be a window into the world of Earth and wildlife protection
Use journalism, photography, and expedition-based storytelling to translate complex conservation work into compelling, accurate narratives that move audiences from awareness to action.
Focus:
Non-invasive wildlife research and conservation storytelling, incorporating emerging field technologies such as environmental DNA alongside traditional ecological knowledge and on-the-ground conservation work.
Writings From The Road
Wildlife | Motorcycles | Science | Exploration
Bio
I’ve been living on a motorcycle for years now, different bikes on different continents. The only thing I’ve been passionate about longer than riding motorcycles is wildlife. Perhaps my most favorite achievement in this lifetime is bridging these two worlds, of fueling motorcycle travel with my purpose of honoring the wild and protecting ecosystems.
I first learned about the wildlife trafficking while in university studying for my biology degree. It ignited a flame inside my chest that still burns today. I knew in that moment my life would be devoted to protecting animals from this dark trade and protecting biodiversity for future generations.
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